Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust mechanism for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a long-standing record of drug and alcohol use by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands. When collected close to the scalp, hair provides a detection window of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to ship.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of approximately 200 strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, ideal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests more extensive than 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair is unavailable, the equivalent amount of body hair may be used. When referring to head hair, it means only scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial processing of a sample within a lab’s system. It involves verifying that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for abusive drug presence. While Screening is a cost-effective method to eliminate drug use for most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to be admissible in legal contexts. Samples presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction preparation. In this stage, drugs are extracted from hair in much lower concentrations compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging technique to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive results from Screening is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing in Northwood, ND, offers clear advantages over traditional urine tests. Its extensive detection window and ability to trace drugs far longer provide an edge in accuracy. Hair tests capture a more extended history of drug use, making them a superior choice for employers and agencies aiming for critic-proof results.
Unlike urine tests that only detect recent drug use, hair tests uncover a longer timeline, improving accuracy and dependability. This superior detection capability ensures the reliability of the findings, offering peace of mind for all users.
In Northwood, ND, hair follicle tests offer an extended detection window capturing up to 90 days of substance use history. This longer duration allows employers to gain comprehensive insights into an individual's drug past, offering an unmatched view compared to other testing methods.
This capability ensures that employers receive a full picture of potential employees' drug use, helping them make more informed hiring decisions. It's this broadscope analysis that makes hair follicle tests a reliable choice for detailed assessments.
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Northwood, ND, is its remarkable tamper-resistance. By significantly reducing the chances of sample adulteration, it delivers reliable, unquestionable results. This method's internal integrity ensures that the findings remain pristine and untampered, thus preserving their credibility.
Moreover, the process facilitates an observed collection, adding an additional layer of security and mitigating risks of tampering altogether. This ensures the results are true reflections of the test's efficacy.
With convenient testing locations in Northwood, ND, and across the nation, accessing quality drug testing services is simple. Our extensive network ensures a quick, hassle-free experience, allowing for nationwide and local tests without compromises.
This widespread availability means individuals can take tests with ease, improving accessibility while maintaining high standards.
Whether seeking a test in town or elsewhere, our centers offer dependable services that meet a variety of needs, making the process smoother and more effective.
The hair follicle testing process in Northwood, ND, is designed to be simple and confidential. From order to specimen collection and result delivery, each step prioritizes ease and discretion. Our approach stresses privacy, alleviating concerns over data safety and process transparency.
By prioritizing confidentiality, this method aligns with user expectations, providing a streamlined experience that maintains the integrity of the entire process. Testers can trust the seamless journey from initiation to conclusion, focused on privacy and simplicity.
Affordable pricing and fast turnaround characterize our hair follicle testing in Northwood, ND. Companies can rely on our competitive rates that provide exceptional value, ensuring cost-effective choices that do not compromise on service quality.
Quick result delivery keeps businesses informed promptly, aiding them in decisions without delay. Our focus on efficiency and economy allows organizations of all sizes to enjoy robust services that fit their budgetary requirements perfectly.
In Northwood, ND, hair follicle tests provide fast, accurate, and reliable results for drug detection. This method stands out due to its precision in uncovering substance use, surpassing other testing procedures. Not only does it offer quick results, but it also maintains a high level of accuracy, making it an invaluable choice for those demanding trustworthy data.
Hair follicle tests' speed and accuracy ensure that Northwood residents and businesses can make informed decisions based on reliable data. By utilizing cutting-edge technology, these tests deliver comprehensive information swiftly, which enhances the reliability of the entire testing process.
Hair follicle testing in Northwood, ND, assures employers of compliance with drug-free policies. This protocol strengthens workplace safety while adhering to legal requisites. It guarantees that companies operate within prescribed standards, reducing legal risks and ensuring organizational peace.
When businesses utilize hair tests, they reinforce a commitment to a drug-free environment, allowing them to maintain standards and security measures efficiently. These assurances bring companies the peace of mind needed to focus on growth and development.
